Laboratory Testing for Cholera

This manual is to be used for countries with minimal laboratory capacity and few resources. It focuses on the epidemiology of cholera and the laboratory methods to isolate and identify Vibrio cholerae serogroups O1 and O139 and how to test their susceptibility to antimicrobial agents in the epidemic setting. The laboratory techniques and study methodology described provide accurate and useful information for the control of epidemics using a minimum of resources. Often, the countries that face the challenge of responding to an epidemic are those with the least resources. Therefore, the microbiology laboratory must use its resources wisely in order to have the greatest impact on reducing morbidity and mortality during an epidemic.
This manual is intended for use by Reference Laboratories.

Cholera - Vibrio cholerae infection